STYLE AND CULTURE

LOOKS FROM '90S SITCOMS

By Lakeisha Goedluck, April 7, 2018

When it comes to iconic sitcoms, the '90s was something of a golden era. From Zack’s teenage hijinks in Saved by the Bell to Will and Carlton constantly going head-to-head in TheFresh Prince of Bel-Air. But in addition to quick gags, these shows offer up some great style tips — so, if you want to channel the aesthetics of the era, look no further…

Originating from the Ivy League schools of north-east America in the '50s and '60s, a '90s version of preppy style was championed in Friends, Blossom andby Zack in Saved by the Bell (indeed, he's nicknamed as such by best frenemy, A.C. Slater). Heritage knitwear, light-washed denim and transitional jackets serve as hallmarks of the trend.

To emulate a '90s preppy look, start off with a V-neck checked sweater. Then, pop a traditional Harrington jacket on over the top in a neutral camel tone to balance out the patterning on your knit. Down low, opt for a pair of straight-leg light-washed jeans and round off your ensemble with a simple pair of Converse One Star sneakers.

Pictures: ASOS

Hip-hop reigned supreme during the '90s, so what rappers were wearing served as the sartorial zeitgeist. From 2Pac to the Wu-Tang Clan, large color-block jackets, chunky sneakers and loose-fitting pants were ubiquitous, and MC-turned-actor Will Smith donned a memorably day-glo take on the vibe for his starring role as the Fresh Prince.

To copy the likes of Will or the cast of Martin, the first thing to do is introduce some oversized silhouettes into your wardrobe. Layer up with a fluorescent tee and windbreaker, then counterbalance the colorfulness with a steezy all-over-print denim jacket. On your bottom half, go for camo cargoes and staple black Air Force 1 sneakers. Match your cross-body bag to the hues featured across your 'fit and give a not-so-subtle nod to the period by finishing off your look with a neon cap.